University of Missouri course catalogs : a hidden resource
Mapping Mizzou
Most University of Missouri course catalogs include maps of the campus and grounds, which are updated year-to-year to reflect changes in the University. These yearly-updated course catalog maps offer a fascinating glimpse into how the campus has gradually changed over time and into trends in construction, style, identity, and much more.
The University of Missouri was founded in 1839. In the almost 200 years since then, the campus has experienced dramatic change and expansion. Compare the maps below to track the expansion through time.
1873: Sketch of plan of campus
A sketch of a plan, designed by B'vt Maj. J.W. Mac.Murray, shows the locations of buildings and geographical features on the University of Missouri campus. This map is the earliest available in our digital collections.
The building labeled "University" is Academic Hall and unfortunately burned in 1892.
From: Report by the Curators to the Governor containing catalogue, announcements, and other matters pertaining to the university : year ending June 26th, 1873
1887: Plate V: Ground Plan of Campus and Farm
This 1887 map presents an overview of the property owned by the university and the location of buildings on campus.
From: Annual catalogue of the University of the State of Missouri at Columbia, Missouri, 1886-1887
1927: Map of the University of Missouri at Columbia, Mo.
In this 1927 map, the University has begun to develop many of the characteristics that we still recognize today. The library, the gymnasium, the stadium, and many other buildings and locations were relatively new when this map was published but are essential parts of the University that we cherish to this day.
From: Announcements, 1927-1928
1956: Campus: University of Missouri
Notice the massive growth of the University of Missouri in this image compared to earlier maps from above. Use the stadium in the top-right of this and the above 1927 map to orient yourself. How many new buildings can you identify?
From: Announcements for the academic year, 1957-58